A year ago, when John and I were running in a Turkey Trot 5K in Bluffton, SC before heading home to Thanksgiving dinner for just the two of us, it didn’t once cross my mind that just one year later, I would be sitting at work in Germany. (Yes, work – my position is in a 24/7 work center!)

The only thing that was crossing my mind was keeping the turkey, stuffing and gravy edible. I didn’t even give thought to what the year ahead would bring.

And it has brought me incredible experiences in amazing places…places where I make myself put away the camera, take in the surroundings and remind myself to be thankful. I have gotten really good at that in the last 10 months that I have been in Europe.

It only adds to the list of things I am always thankful for, such as:

 – My Husband

Ireland in May

We have celebrated holidays apart before – while we were dating, he spent the first two years of our relationship deployed over Christmas and New Years – but this year, we missed our anniversary and we are missing Thanksgiving. But I get to see him in three short weeks, and I am beyond thankful for that. I really miss having him here – I’ve been to a few places without him and they aren’t nearly as fun without my favorite travel partner and my best friend.

– My Family

Drew, Kate and Jane last Christmas – can’t wait to take another picture with them in front of the Christmas tree this year!

I haven’t seen these little pumpkins in awhile! So excited to see them!

Thanks to my mom, Derek, Mandy and Rachel for keeping me in touch with the little guys!

For the last couple of years, I had been making an effort to get home at least once in the spring, once in the fall and of course, the holidays. Being here since February – I haven’t been able to make it home but have thankfully been able to keep in touch through Facebook, FaceTime and text messages. My family has done a great job of keeping me in the loop as far as what my nieces and nephews are up to, which is awesome, and I get to FaceTime with them on a regular basis. That kind of support is much appreciated!

– My Friends

I am thankful for the wonderfully supportive, kind and amazing friends that I am lucky to have in my life. I miss my friends while I am over here but their awesomeness isn’t diminished by a silly little ocean.

– FaceTime

I love these pictures and the chats that go along with them!

FaceTime = best invention ever. It’s no subsitute for being there in person, but it comes in at a close second.

– Living Abroad and Getting to Experience it with my Favorite People

The memories John and I are making exploring Europe truly are priceless!

Ireland in 2013…Germany in 2014? (Just say yes, Jake!)

Already making a list for Mom’s next visit!

Rome Marathon 2014!

I have loved getting to travel around with my family and friends. It’s always so much fun and there is always something new to discover. Open invitation to visit in 2014! 🙂

– That everyone on this list is just a plane ride or a phone call away.

I hope this finds everyone happy, healthy and enjoying Thanksgiving with your loved ones!! Happy Thanksgiving!